Duration:
Operated By:
Set sail on the stunning waters of the Gold Coast on this exclusive, two hour lunch and sightseeing cruise, departing from a convenient spot in the heart of Surfers Paradise. Step aboard our luxurious vessel Spirit of Elston, and enjoy one of the best sightseeing and dining experiences on the Gold Coast. Panoramic views from the spacious upper deck showcase some of the city’s most famous landmarks – such as the glittering waters of the Gold Coast Broadwater, Sea World, HOTA (Home of the Arts) and the glamorous Palazzo Versace. Satisfy your appetite with an irresistible buffet lunch, including locally sourced king prawns, succulent roast chicken, freshly baked ham off the bone and delicious salads. Pair lunch with wine, craft beer or treat yourself to a tasty cocktail. Head upstairs to the open-air top deck and soak in the sunshine with a drink in hand while listening to entertaining commentary from our expert crew about the iconic Gold Coast.
Highlights
2 hour sightseeing lunch cruise
Tropical buffet lunch
Fully-licensed onboard bar
Spacious sundeck with 360-degree views
Experience the best of the Gold Coast from the iconic waterways
Departs from the convenient location of Surfers Paradise
Inclusions
2 hour Gold Coast waterways cruise
Comfortable air-conditioned lower deck with full amenities
2-course Tropical Buffet Lunch
Fully stocked onboard bar for optional beverage purchases
Take in the spectacular skyline views of the famous Surfers Paradise
Cruise past local landmarks, including Marina Mirage, HOTA Home of the Arts, Sea World, Palazzo Versace, and lavish waterfront homes
Entertaining and informative onboard commentary
Menu
Cold Selection
Gold Coast ocean king prawns (GF, LF)
Natural New Zealand mussels (GF, LF)
Maple-glazed baked ham off the bone (GF, LF)
Lightly seasoned roast chicken pieces (GF, LF)
Summer garden salad (V, VE, GF, LF)
Mediterranean pasta salad (V, VE, LF, N)
Classic coleslaw salad (V, GF, E)
Damper-style bread rolls (V, VE)
Desserts
Sliced seasonal melons and tropical fruits (V, VE, GF, LF)
Pavlova served with mango, passionfruit and cream (V, E)
(V) – Vegetarian (VE) – Vegan (GF) – Gluten Free (LF) – Lactose-Free (N) – May Contain Nuts (E) – May Contain Egg
Allergen information is a guide only.
Departure time and location
Cruises depart at 12 PM and return at 2:00 PM
Checkin at 11:30 AM, and boarding commences at 11:45 AM
Setting sail up to 7 days a week
Cruises depart from Tiki Reserve pontoon, 73 Cavill Ave, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217
Your Captain and Crew will check you in on the vessel at the Nerang River end of Cavill Ave.
Paid parking is available nearby at Bruce Bishop, Circle on Cavill, Chevron Renaissance, and Cypress Avenue car parks
Alternative departures are at 11:00 AM (returning 1:00 PM) and 1:30 PM (returning 3:30 PM) during peak periods.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
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Oh my goodness, what a spectacular day for whale watching. Captain Pedro and the crew on the 10am cruise today did an outstanding job, finding and following the whales. We saw, adult whales, juvenile whales and dolphins. Breaching, slapping and rolls.
Keep up the awesome work team.
Our 3-year-old daughter had so much fun and absolutely loved every minute of it. A huge thank you to Nicole, who went above and beyond to make sure everyone had a great experience. She was so friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely cared that everyone on board was having the best time.
We couldn’t have asked for a better day and would highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting the Gold Coast!
The staff were excellent - courteous & a very informative commentary during our cruise. And a stunning sunset to end the cruise as we returned to Seaworld. Well done.
The staff were lovely, pointing out other whales ensuring that everyone was able to enjoy it as much as possible.
I would 100% recommend Sea World whale watching to anyone wanting the best whale watching experience on the Gold Coast!
I think it was great that they provided guests with the opportunity to purchase travacalm prior to leaving to try combat the motion sickness and they were empathetic to those who were overcome by it.
We only had one whale for our sighting but they still made it extremely special for us - ensuring the boat was moved to the direction the what was at and always giving us directions on where to look.
We would absolutely recommend and book again.
We had a wheelchair and they were very accommodating. Provided us with window seats and took us to the back of the boat and turned it so we had full view of the whales. They kept checking in and helped us get on and off the boat. Very lovely and helpful.
They spoke about the whales history, life and about ways to contribute and take care of them in the future. It was educational and we had a lovely time.
So many whales were seen. I did the tour on Tuesday 23rd at 9:00am
What an amazing experience!
Captain Uayne and assistant Nicoh were both fantastic throughout the tour. They were professional, friendly, and made everyone feel welcome and safe on board.
Seeing the whales up close was absolutely breathtaking and truly unforgettable. It was such a powerful and emotional experience watching these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. The crew shared interesting information and made sure everyone had a great view.
Thank you to the Sea World team for such a wonderful whale watching tour. Highly recommended to anyone visiting the Gold Coast!
I had an amazing day out on the water today. Our whale watching adventure with Captain Wayne and crew was perfect. The weather couldn't have been more perfect, the ride out into the ocean was perfect, the commentary and information captain Wayne delivered was so informative and interesting. I learnt so much about the humpback 🐋 and to top it of a whale decided to give a spectacular display. It was incredible.
Thank you captain Wayne and crew for a wonderful day.
She is, undoubtedly, a gem within your staff. I want to trust that Nicole in is fairly rewarded for her effort to make your business shine in the midst of any competition!
I didn't like the part before getting aboard when the staff insisted on taking a photo for all guests that they will try to sell you after the trip.
I really enjoyed the cruise (apart from hearing people vomiting around me!). We only saw a few whales but it was still a great morning out. Staff were lovely and very helpful to the unwell.
We were lucky enough to see a baby whale with its mother, truly a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
Highly recommend
A special mention to the photographer, Nicole, who was absolutely amazing! They captured beautiful moments and were so patient and professional, ensuring everyone had a chance to get great photos without feeling rushed.
Thank you to the whole crew for making the experience so memorable. I’ll definitely recommend this cruise to others looking for an exciting and well-organised whale watching adventure!
I also don’t get why a company like SeaWorld that advocates for less waste / sustainability etc would print out everyone’s photos prior to asking people if they’re wanting to buy them.. over half of the people didn’t buy their photos - it’s not like anyone else can buy photos of other people meaning they’d be going straight into the bin
Really enjoyed and was looked after very well and informative running commentary, would recommend everyone trying this, and we will love to come back and do again earlier in the year.
The boat, crew and Captain were great. We did take the option for the Captain’s Lounge Seating which was an extra $30. Not sure if I think thats value but it was very pleasant.
I have been on a few whale watch tours now and one of the best pluses this one has is such easy close access out and in on the boat to view them.
Really enjoyed and was looked after very well and informative running commentary, would recommend everyone trying this, and we will love to come back and do again earlier in the year.
The boat, crew and Captain were great. We did take the option for the Captain’s Lounge Seating which was an extra $30. Not sure if I think thats value but it was very pleasant.
I have been on a few whale watch tours now and one of the best pluses this one has is such easy close access out and in on the boat to view them.
We got up close to a number of humpback whales.
Crew were very knowledgeable and helpful.
Highly recommended!
The captain and crew were excellent on the day- very helpful, polite and professional. It was a longer wait to find the whales- when the whales appeared the captain did his best to follow/find them for the passengers. We didn't really see that many whales. Just as we were due to return to base, a pod was spotted a fair distance from us, but he turned and followed them to allow us a lasting experience - it was magical to see the pod together... Although no breaching ones.
Our cruise was extended due to this manoeuvre which is most appreciated by all on the cruise.
Thank you Captain Wayne and crew!
Definitely would recommend Sea World Whale Watching cruises to family and friends!


























